War in the Middle East escalated again this week after Saudi Arabia crossed the line separating diplomacy from conflict, joining the U.S. in striking Iranian-linked targets in Iraq. The likes of Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar transformed themselves into world-renowned trade hubs, oil exporters and low-tax destinations for white-collar Westerners to make their fortunes. This global web of political and commercial relationships afforded the Gulf states outsized influence, which they used to position themselves as vital intermediaries in global disputes. Sharing the Burden Far and WideFor Saudi Arabia, this is simply a logical next step down the road of diversifying insurance providers. A more stable Middle East better equipped to police its own future crises would be welcomed by just about everyone—except those in Washington who want to preserve America’s power to set the rules.